Health Encyclopedia

Ruptured Eardrum

Definition

Tympanic membrane perforation, or a ruptured eardrum, is a hole in the eardrum (tympanic membrane).

The eardrum is a very thin membrane made of tissue that separates the middle ear from the ear canal. The eardrum aids in hearing and in preventing bacteria and other foreign matter from entering the middle ear.

Causes

Puncture from use of a Q-tip or other device inserted in the ear canal

Damage to the ear, such as being slapped or hit

Pressure building up inside the middle ear, as may occur with scuba diving

Risk Factors

Factors that may increase your chance a ruptured eardrum include:

Having an ear infection

History of eardrum ruptures, or ear surgery, such as ear tubes

Scuba diving

Injury to the ear

Inserting objects in the ear

Symptoms

You may not have any symptoms.
For those that have symptoms, a ruptured eardrum may cause:

Earache, severe and increasing in its severity

Earache, severe, then subsides, then is followed by discharge from the ear

Drainage from the ear—may have blood or pus

Hearing loss or difficulty hearing out of the affected ear

Buzzing or other noise in the ear

People who have traumatic ruptures to the eardrum may be at an increased risk of an ear infection. Infection may occur because the opening in the membrane allows bacteria to enter the middle ear and cause infection.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. During the exam, the doctor will examine the ear with an otoscope and look to see if the eardrum has been perforated. The perforation is sometimes difficult to see because of the thick drainage in the ear.

Doctors may also perform an
audiology test
to determine if any hearing loss has occurred.

Treatment

While many ruptured eardrums will heal on their own, many may also require treatment to heal properly. Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Options may include:

Medications

Medications may include:

Oral antibiotics or antibiotic eardrops if an infection is present or possible

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.